Former student testifies on behalf of adult education at U.S. Senate
Former student Taleah Mitchell testified this week at the U.S. Senate Committee on Health, Education and Labor in Washington, D.C., on the importance of adult-education programs at colleges throughout the nation. In her address, she discussed her experience in the Integrated Basic Education & Skills Training (I-BEST) program, which helps students enroll in college level programs and earn a certificate in high demand industries at community and technical colleges. She urged legislators to support funding for Pell Grants, student support services and federal programs like food and unemployment assistance, which help low-income students finish college with a lower financial burden. Read her full testimony on the U.S. Senate’s website.
Mitchell was pulled out of school due to family circumstances in the fourth grade. As a young adult, she worked several retail jobs, but dreamed of more than low-wage work. At 25, she first came to Seattle Central for the I-BEST program and earned an Information Technology certificate. She excelled academically with support from campus advising, career services and financial aid support and later served as a teaching assistant and tutor in I-BEST classes.
Mitchell was active on campus as a student advocate, frequently helping connect students with resources. She served on the student council and was inducted into the Phi Theta Kappa national honor society for two-year colleges. She was awarded scholarships from the Seattle Central Foundation and went on to serve as an executive member on its scholarship board.
After leaving Seattle Central, Mitchell started a successful career as an assistant manager. She has since given speeches and led panel discussions throughout Washington state, including testimony before the Washington State House of Representatives, on behalf of adult education programs. She plans to continue her studies and dreams of attending Smith College or Amherst College.